Lionel Scaloni has warned Argentina that Cape Verde's stunning progress to the World Cup knockout stages is 'no accident' and has urged his side to respect the Blue Sharks ahead of their last 32 tie in Miami on Friday.
Scaloni's Warning Ahead of 100th Match in Charge
Speaking ahead of his 100th match as Argentina manager, Scaloni highlighted that Cape Verde remain unbeaten in the tournament, having drawn all three group games, including against Spain, to advance from Group H ahead of Uruguay. 'This is a team that hasn't lost,' Scaloni said. 'They aren't here by accident. We have to respect them, and that is what we will do.'
Argentina, the defending champions, cruised through the group stage with Lionel Messi scoring six goals in three games. The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner, now 39, has been in stunning form, accounting for six of Argentina's eight goals so far. The other two came from Giovani Lo Celso's free-kick and a Lautaro Martinez penalty against already eliminated Jordan.
Messi's Goal-Scoring Form and Team Reliance
Scaloni acknowledged the team's desire to spread goals across the squad but played down suggestions of over-reliance on Messi. 'We would love to spread the goals across the whole team,' he added. Argentina could face Australia or Egypt in the last 16 if they beat Cape Verde, with Switzerland or Colombia potential quarter-final opponents.
France Looming as Potential Semi-Final Foe
Argentina could be on a collision course for a repeat of the 2022 final against France, who beat them 3-3 on penalties. Les Bleus have been dominant, scoring 13 goals in four games, with Kylian Mbappe, Michael Olise and Ousmane Dembele forming a fearsome attack. 'What France has done is eye-catching. They are a great team,' Scaloni said.
